Clinical study of pedicled tarsal conjunctival flap transposition in reconstruction of eyelid

Abstract

Objective To investigate the clinical effect of the remaining eyelid of Pedicled tarsal conjunctival flap transposition in the reconstruction of severe full-thickness eyelid defects after the surgery of malignant eyelid tumors. Methods Among the 15 patients (15 eyes) treated with full-thickness eyelid defects between 1/3 to 1/2 after the surgery of malignant eyelid tumors, the remaining eyelid of Pedicled tarsal conjunctival flap was grafted to replace the posterior layers of the eyelid (the tarsus and the conjunctiva) while periocular orbicularis muscular flap was utilized to reconstruct the anterior layers of the eyelid (the skin and muscular layer). Results All patients were followed for 6 to 36 months, averaged 18 months. The flaps and Pedicled tarsal conjunctival flaps existed well in all cases. Satisfactory aesthetic and functional results were achieved, all patients with no recurrence. Conclusions The transposition of Pedicled tarsal conjunctival flap can repair full-thickness eyelid defects between 1/3 to 1/2 after the surgery of malignant eyelid tumors with definite and good outcome. Key words: Malignant eyelid tumors; Blepharoplasty; Tarsal conjunctival flap transposition